A member of the Rochester Federation of German-American Societies, the Rochester Touristen Verein (RTV) traces its beginnings to German immigrants in the Rochester area who wanted to share their ideals and values with each other at a common location. The RTV was formally established in 1929. The early RTV members enjoyed companionship, conversation, and common interests at various local restaurants, where they met to share their thoughts and ideas.

In 1941, the RTV club members purchased a unique piece of property, on Pond Road in Lima, New York. This beautiful property exists today and continues to be the focal point for present RTV members to meet, converse, and celebrate. The property includes an old farmhouse, a barn, a pond, various structures added over the years, and a fair amount of acreage. The original owners of the farmhouse were Aaron and Moses Plymton, who built it in 1787.

Current RTV members enjoy many of the same activities as did the founders: a common location for social gatherings, conversation, nature hikes to view the local flora and fauna (no hunting is allowed on RTV property), cross-country skiing, swimming, fishing, picnics, and simple relaxation in a natural setting. Many families have watched their children grow up, mature, and embrace the ideals and values of RTV's forebears. The original RTV ideals continue in its membership with each succeeding generation.

On the second Sunday of June each year, the RTV club hosts a large celebration of nature's reawakening, called the "Baumblüten Fest" (Blossom Festival). The RTV invites the public to participate and enjoy the food, music, dancing, and many other activities that are celebrated in the German tradition that has been passed down through the generations.

The RTV club hosts several other speical events throughout the year that the public is invited to: A winter carnival is usually held in February; in July the RTV enjoys a golf tournament and picnic; and in October, a Wine Festival is celebrated to commemorate the year's harvest. Additionally, the RTV has numerous picnics, nature hikes, and other celebrations with its members.

All of these events are a cherished part of life at RTV, and they welcome participation by others interested in the traditions of RTV.